Can the issuance of green bonds promote corporate green transformation?

The role of green financing in propelling corporate green transformation and sustainable growth has attracted a lot of interest. Regarding their function in promoting corporate green transformation, green bonds—a crucial part of green finance—pose an important research question. This study, targeting Chinese A-share listed corporates, employing double machine learning models, aims to delve into the impact and mechanisms of green bond issuance on corporate green transformation. The findings indicate that issuing green bonds significantly drives corporate green transformation, especially in state-owned, smaller-scale, and non-manufacturing firms, where the impact is more evident. Further analysis discloses that green bond issuance primarily facilitates corporate green transformation through its functions in green investment and financing, green regulatory compliance, and green governance. This study serves as a theoretical reference, guiding businesses in seizing emerging opportunities in the green bond market and actively undertaking green transformation projects, thereby catalyzing a comprehensive economic transition.